Quinn Harp Cross Co. Clare Ireland

Although very old, this cross is not one of the ancient high crosses of Ireland.  It does, however, echo the shape and design of those magnificent ancient monuments.  The Harp Cross is located among the ruins of the Quinn Friary and is approximately 11 feet high.  Quinn was founded as a Franciscan Friary in 1433.  It was built in the ruins of a much older Anglo-Norman castle. Carved into the face of the cross is an Irish harp and scores of shamrocks.  The harp figures into many of the old Irish myths.  The shamrock is said to have been used by St. Patrick to explain the Trinity, the triple nature of God.